An amendment to the guidelines was issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on December 6. A study permit is no longer required for work permit holders who applied before June 7, 2023, to continue their studies in Canada. As a component of a short-term project, this policy will remain in force until June 27, 2026.

Eligibility for the Exemption

Individuals must fulfil specific requirements to qualify for this study permit exemption. You are eligible for the exemption if you applied for a work permit before June 7, 2023, or if you applied to renew your work permit before then and were granted a work authorization letter by the IRCC.

While their work visa applications are being reviewed, individuals can get work permission letters from the IRCC. This exemption is not available to you if your application was submitted after June 7, 2023.

You might be permitted to study without a study permit if you have a valid work permit and have applied for an extension in the correct way. Work permit holders are spared from having to submit a second application for a study permit thanks to the temporary regulation.

How Long Can You Study Without a Study Permit?

As long as your present work permit is still in effect, the exemption is applicable. The exemption lasts until the renewal is approved or denied if you have requested for one. This study exemption, however, is only good until the policy expires on June 27, 2026.

You can enrol in more study programs if you have both a study permit and a co-op work permit, as long as you abide by the terms of your study permit. As long as the new study program doesn't last longer than your co-op work visa, you can choose this choice.

Proof of Study Permit Exemption

You will need to present certain documentation to your designated learning institution (DLI) to demonstrate your eligibility for the exemption. These consist of an email from the IRCC verifying your eligibility under this policy, your valid work permit, or an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) for your work permit renewal application.

These records assist in confirming that your DLI considers you exempt from the requirement for a study permit. You don't need to take extra application steps to continue your study in Canada if you have the proper documentation.

For individuals who decide to continue their studies in Canada, there are numerous advantages. When it comes to the job market, newcomers who study in Canada typically outperform those who study outside. Furthermore, education can improve your chances of being granted permanent residency, particularly through Express Entry, which gives more points for higher education levels.

Work permit holders now have more options to further their education and, eventually, their future in Canada thanks to this new IRCC measure.

FAQS

Can I use this exemption to become a full-time student?

No, you can study without a study permission thanks to this exception, but you still have to abide by the terms of your work permit. Without study permission, you are unable to change to full-time student status.

What occurs if my application to renew my work permit is denied?

You will no longer be eligible for the exemption to study without a study permit if your application to renew your work permit is denied. To continue studying in Canada, you would have to renew for both a work permit and a study permit.